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Dev tools · August 1, 2025

PlugBrain

I've been working on PlugBrain, an open-source Android app that helps reduce screen time by blocking distracting apps. Instead of simply locking you out, PlugBrain makes you solve math puzzles to regain access. PlugBrain uses math challenges as a barrier. The difficulty increases as you use distracting apps more often, and decreases if you stay away. The app is GPL3-licensed and available on GitHub. Still early, so I'd love feedback on the code, usability, and whether the idea feels useful or annoying in practice.

PlugBrain launched on August 1, 2025 with 7 votes, #3,174 of 8,530 launches that month. The site was still online in September 2026, 1 year on.

What it does

A focus app that unlocks distracting apps only after solving adaptive math challenges.

A focus app that unlocks distracting apps only after solving adaptive math challenges. - msbelaid/PlugBrain

PlugBrain is an app that encourages regular breaks from distracting apps by blocking access at scheduled intervals. To regain access, you’ll need to solve a math challenge that adjusts in difficulty: the more frequently you use the apps, the harder the challenges become, but the longer you stay away, the easier they get. We're currently working on a new UI redesign based on a Figma design to make the app more modern and intuitive. Huge thanks to @HichemDahaoui for the amazing design work, and to @travis-jeans for the new app icon. We'd love to hear your use cases, success stories, and feedback. A focus app that unlocks distracting apps only after solving adaptive mathfrom github.com

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